World leaders have responded to the tragic deaths of Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi and Foreign Minister Hossein Amir Abdollahian, who perished in a helicopter crash on Sunday. The helicopter crash-landed due to bad weather in Iran’s East Azerbaijan province while returning from Khoda Afarin County to Tabriz.
The international community expressed deep sorrow and extended condolences on Monday, with tributes flowing from various regional and global leaders. Countries across the Middle East and beyond voiced their support for the Iranian government during this difficult time.
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his profound sadness and shock at the news of President Raisi’s death. “My heartfelt condolences to his family and the people of Iran. India stands with Iran in this time of sorrow,” Modi said.
Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev also expressed his grief over Raisi’s sudden passing. “Today, after bidding a friendly farewell to the President of the Islamic Republic of Iran, Ebrahim Raisi, we were profoundly troubled by the news of a helicopter carrying the top delegation crash-landing in Iran. Our prayers to Allah Almighty are with President Ebrahim Raisi and the accompanying delegation,” Aliyev stated. He added that Azerbaijan is ready to offer any assistance needed to Iran following the immense loss.
Pakistan’s Prime Minister and President Shehbaz Sharif announced that the country would observe a day of mourning and fly the national flag at half-mast in honor of Raisi and Abdollahian. “Pakistan had the pleasure of hosting President Raisi and Foreign Minister Hossein Amir Abdollahian on a historic visit less than a month ago. They were good friends of Pakistan. Pakistan will observe a day of mourning, and the flag will fly at half-mast as a mark of respect for President Raisi and his companions and in solidarity with Brotherly Iran,” Sharif tweeted.
Hamas, in a statement, expressed solidarity with Iran’s supreme leader and the Iranian people, referring to the crash as an “unfortunate accident and painful tragedy.” The statement read, “May He inspire the brotherly Iranian people and the families and loved ones of the victims with patience and good condolences.”
According to local media, Vice-President Mohammad Mokhber will now assume the powers of the presidency. The country is expected to hold an election within 50 days to elect Raisi’s successor.
